Exercise participation among women living with disabilities can be limited as a result of pain, decreased muscle strength, and limited mobility. More “disabling” than these symptoms, however, is a lack of accessible exercise facilities in women’s communities. Our study explores how material and social structures and functions existing and operating within women’s communities and at community-based exercise facilities affect their participation. Interviews with 15 women living with disabilities were conducted and qualitatively analyzed. Participants discuss the benefits of their exercise participation, in addition to how they experience and negotiate structural and attitudinal barriers within community-based facilities.

Responses

This study comes to the blindingly obvious conclusion that it’s good for women with disabilities to exercise, but that it may be difficult for them to avail themselves of exercise resources in their communities due to lack of affordable and accessible transportation, lack of accessible facilities, and the attitude and lack of education amongst fitness personnel.

Ms Krista, I’m fumbling my way toward a sideline as a trainer. My only client is a woman with mild cerebral palsy. In my eyes she makes the rest of the training globo gym world look like petulant children. I wouldn’t have the progress I have had with her without the leadership you’ve shown over the years.
-Martin
Indianapolis